The Mettle Award was first presented to Angela (Ayala) McDaniel in recognition of her courage to face the incredible challenge of training for and competing in the Leadville 100 (mile) Ultra-marathon. In doing so she undertook a challenge that few if any of the members of the Sunflower Striders would even dare to consider. Each year since then the Mettle Award has been used to honor someone who has either sought out such a new and uncommon challenge on their own or faced down incredible adversity.

The award is intended to recognize those that embody this definition and the spirit that Angela demonstrated: That no challenge is too great. Generally the award is given to one individual although multiple individuals have been honored some years. Only current Sunflower Striders members that have been active (paid dues) for at least two years are eligible for the award. Nominations should be typed or written and must be submitted to a Sunflower Striders’ board member before December 15. Each nomination should include the individual’s name and an explanation of how they have reflected the spirit of the Mettle Award through their perseverance in facing new and uncommon challenges. The past Mettle Award winners will be charged with selecting the next Mettle Award winner from the nominations, and will not be eligible to win the Mettle Award again. The previous winners will meet prior to January 15 with each previous winner eligible to cast one vote. The highest ranking club officer that has not won the Mettle Award and is not among the current year’s nominees, shall schedule this meeting, and distribute copies of nominations to previous Mettle winners. This officer will also preside over the meeting but will not have voting rights. The voters may discuss the nominees among themselves prior to voting, but only one vote shall be taken by secret ballot. Previous winners that are unable to attend the scheduled meeting may vote absentee prior to the selection meeting by submitting a sealed envelope to the officer that will preside over the meeting. The Mettle Award winner will be the nominee that receives the greatest number of votes. Only individuals nominated by another Sunflower Strider will be eligible for the award.

The award winner will be recognized at the Sunflower Striders’ banquet with a plaque and a copy of the nomination submitted on their behalf.